Top Three: Quirky Venues for 2021 World Cup

Anyone who visited England for the 2015 Rugby Union World Cup will already be familiar with the likes of the Olympic Stadium and the Etihad Stadium. London and Manchester are the places that Oceanic visitors most readily flock to – and for good reason. Yet, there are other places that may leave you with some cherished memories for life.

For the benefit of those that have never crossed to the other side of the world to watch a good tear-up with the English, these are the venues we are most looking forward to visiting, for a truly authentic experience at the 2021 Rugby League World Cup!

Anfield

The Kangaroos have visited Anfield once before, as part of the Four Nations tour.

Depending on logistics, they may return there in 2021, and would do so as odds-on favourites in rugby league betting outright markets across the board, to lift the World Cup

For old-English charm outside a bustling city-centre, look no further than Anfield. It stands an anomalous giant amongst rows of terraced housing, burger vans belching fumes and ancient pubs that go back generations. All these serve as a stark reminder to remind people of the humble origins from which some of rugby’s greatest heroes have emerged.

Of course, the most coveted spot in the stadium is the famous Kop End. Legend has it that the home fans there are vocal enough to magnetise the ball into the net when Liverpool are playing. Even fans that do not have the privilege of sitting in one of Europe’s most famous stands are never far from the action – indeed, the fans towards the front row are but a handshake away from the players!

There is also an excellent, reliant bus service into the city centre for after-game libations! Liverpool is also home to a number of quaint English delicacies, such as the “Scouse Pie” and the “Chip Butty” with tomato ketchup – a must-have if you go here!

St James Park

Scotland edged a thriller against Samoa at St James Park in the 2015 Rugby World Cup, the stadium proving its credentials as a world-class rugby venue. Up in Newcastle-upon-Tyne, people know how to have a good time. Students love it, as do stag and hen parties, and with hotspots like the Bigg Market never apparently sleeping, this is a place worth visiting – even if only as a neutral!

The stadium is located in the city centre, with many pubs and bars practically next door. Two huge stands in one corner dwarf the other two. The very top tier is unsuitable for those with vertigo or a fear of heights, with the players appearing microscopic at times from there. However, the lower tier is satisfyingly close to the action.

Bramall Lane

It is one of the smaller English football venues in the 2021 World Cup, but Bramall Lane’s enclosed nature offers an atmosphere that can be intimidating for any visiting side. The ground itself is within walking distance of Sheffield train station, and with the city also situated in the county of Yorkshire, it acts as a good starting point for any journeys to English Super League clubs.

Wakefield Trinity, Castleford Tigers, Leeds Rhinos and Huddersfield Giants are all within an hour’s commute of Bramall Lane, giving any visitors here in 2021 some extra incentive to have an extended stay. Sheffield also boasts good nightlife and is seen as a more low-key – but not less enjoyable – night out compared to Manchester.

Use the Fanplanner to choose your 2015 NRL Fantasy, Dream Team or Supercoach squad using accurate salary cap and player price estimates! Now with projected discounts to players who missed 2014 like Mitchell Dodds!